Thus, there are critical unanswered questions regarding the clinical benefit as well as the scientific basis for arthroscopic meniscectomy for degenerative meniscal tear. To address these questions, this project will conduct a prospective, randomized, blinded, and controlled study of arthroscopic meniscectomy in patients between the ages of 45 and 70 with stable degenerative meniscus tears. In this study, the control group will be a group of patients having arthroscopic lavage of the joint, but no debridement of the stable degenerative meniscus tear. The aims will address clinical (self-reported) and scientific (functional) outcomes of arthroscopic meniscectomy in the time frame lasting up to two years after surgery.